Launched in late 2012, the American Homestay Network (AHN-USA) promises to improve best practice in America’s large but un-professionalised homestay industry by offering a homestay matching system for hosts and students; criminal background checks on hosts; and 24-hour emergency support.

“We are introducing the first professionally-managed homestay operation in America”

It also offers online payment, compulsory student and host orientation training, and airport transfers.

CEO Ron Davis said that a lack of standards and coordination meant US homestay providers were missing out. “The existing homestay industry in America has not been able to keep up with the growing demand and subsequently our schools are losing access to [international] students.

“We are launching the first professionally-managed homestay operation in America. One that utilises a sophisticated matching and management technology, extremely high standards and proven operational methodologies that can grow to support tens of thousands of placements per year.”

NAFSA data suggest international students contributed $500 million to the Washington State economy in 2011-2012. AHN-USA, a NAFSA member, claims that at least 20% of the state’s 20,000 overseas students want to live with an American family to develop their English, learn about American culture and improve their study experience.

The firm has already established relationships with Seattle-area universities and colleges and built an inventory of qualified host families. It hopes to expand to other states in late 2013.

The service is inspired by the Australian Homestay Network, which upholds standards approved by a senate inquiry into international student welfare in 2009. Executive chairman David Bycroft has joined AHN-USA’s board of directors, and says it could help the US avoid the  accommodation issues that Australia has faced over the last decade. These have included exploitative landlords and inflated rents.

“My role…is to circumvent the complacency we saw as the international student industry boomed in Australia,” said Bycroft. “Without implementing high standards now, there is a potential risk to lose tens of thousands of students who are coming to America to study and live.”